Bahamas Soldiers Join Kenyan Forces in Mission to Stabilize Haiti

Troops from the Bahamas have joined Kenyan security forces currently operating in Haiti as part of a multinational mission to combat gang violence and restore peace. The Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission, which aims to deploy around 2,900 personnel, has also received support from additional countries joining the effort to stabilize the Caribbean nation.

Kenya currently has 400 police officers on the ground in Haiti, with an additional 600 expected to arrive soon. So far, the initiative has attracted funding and pledges exceeding $2.4 billion, with contributions coming from UN member states, the World Bank, Japan, and other countries.

The Bahamian troops were formally welcomed by Col Kevron Henry, Deputy Force Commander of the MSS; Julian Smith, the Bahamian Chargé d’Affaires; and senior officials from the Bahamian Consulate in Haiti. They were also greeted by senior officers from the Haitian police force.Col Henry expressed confidence that more countries will deploy personnel soon to strengthen the mission. He commended the Haitian National Police for their cooperation, which has led to improved security in several regions. He emphasized that MSS patrols and operations would continue while awaiting additional reinforcements and equipment from other countries.

The Bahamas has committed to playing a key role in curbing illegal migration, with plans to implement preventive measures aimed at ensuring the safety of Haitian citizens, combating human trafficking, and reducing dangerous sea crossings. More Bahamian forces are expected to join the mission in the coming months.Haitians have responded positively to the arrival of the Bahamian contingent, but many are urging other contributing nations to deploy swiftly. The crisis in Haiti has displaced over 700,000 people, with more than five million citizens facing severe food insecurity.